D.R.I. Returns to Finland: A Night of Crossover Thrash Excellence
A Long-Awaited Comeback
The legendary crossover veterans D.R.I. made their long-awaited return to Finland in 2025, following their debut visit in 2019. The venue was overflowing with passionate fans, many of whom were metal devotees from the 1980s. This time, the anticipation was palpable, and the audience was eager to experience another thrilling performance from the crossover thrash pioneers.
Opening Acts: Setting the Stage
Before D.R.I. took the spotlight, two local bands warmed up the crowd, showcasing the thriving Finnish metal scene.
Takalaiton: A Humorous Thrash Experience
First on stage was the Finnish thrash outfit Takalaiton. Their name, which loosely references Finnish baseball, set the tone for a performance filled with humor and energy. The band delivered their crossover thrash with a playful spirit, sporting outlandish outfits that included old tennis socks and ridiculously tight shorts. Their entertaining stage presence complemented their killer riffs, leaving the audience both laughing and headbanging.
Foreseen: A Powerhouse Performance
Next up was Foreseen, a local crossover thrash powerhouse known for their intense live shows. They unleashed a relentless and high-energy set that had the audience on their feet. While the crowd remained somewhat subdued during the 30-minute performance, the band’s material was practically begging for more chaos, with stage diving and circle pits. Bassist Mårten L. stood out as a one-man whirlwind, darting across the stage with reckless abandon. As Foreseen played, the venue filled to capacity, and even D.R.I. frontman Kurt Brecht was seen interacting with fans at the merch booth, where items quickly sold out.
The Main Event: D.R.I. Takes the Stage
After Foreseen concluded their set, the anticipation grew as D.R.I. prepared to take the stage. Guitarist Spike faced some technical difficulties that required a bit of extra time to resolve, but once everything was set, the band launched into their first song, “The Application,” followed closely by “Dry Heaves.” The audience was treated to over 90 minutes of exhilarating crossover/thrash music, with nearly 30 songs performed in rapid succession.
Classic Hits and High Energy
The setlist was a blend of D.R.I. classics, although fan favorites like “Manifest Destiny” and “Redline” were notably absent. Nevertheless, the energy in the venue was electric, with a mix of nostalgic 1980s metalheads and younger fans diving into the crowd and reliving the thrill of classic stage dives. The band’s performance was a testament to their enduring passion for music, with both Kurt and Spike showing no signs of slowing down after decades of touring.
Conclusion: A Night to Remember
As the night came to a close, the crowd left buzzing with excitement and gratitude for the unforgettable experience. D.R.I.’s return to Finland was a celebration of crossover thrash, uniting fans across generations. The hope is that it won’t be long before they return again to deliver another masterclass in thrash music.
FAQs
When did D.R.I. first perform in Finland?
D.R.I. made their debut performance in Finland in 2019.
What local bands opened for D.R.I. during their recent concert?
The opening acts were Takalaiton and Foreseen, both of whom showcased their unique styles of crossover thrash.
How long was D.R.I.’s performance?
D.R.I. performed for over 90 minutes, delivering a set of nearly 30 songs.
Were any popular songs missing from the setlist?
Yes, fan favorites like “Manifest Destiny” and “Redline” were not included in the setlist.
What was the overall atmosphere of the concert?
The atmosphere was lively and energetic, with fans expressing their enthusiasm through stage diving and headbanging, creating a sense of camaraderie among attendees.
